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Standards for Hydrogen Safety in Commercial Applications

Standards for Hydrogen Safety in Commercial Applications

Standards for Hydrogen Safety in Commercial Applications

Hydrogen has been touted as a promising alternative fuel source due to its high energy density, zero greenhouse gas emissions when burned, and potential to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. However, the use of hydrogen also poses unique safety risks, particularly in commercial applications where large quantities are handled and stored. To mitigate these risks, numerous standards have been developed and implemented globally.

International Standards for Hydrogen Safety

Several international organizations, including the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), have established guidelines for hydrogen safety in commercial applications. These standards cover a wide range of aspects, from vehicle refueling systems to stationary storage and handling.

Some key international standards include:

  • ISO 16924:2016 Hydrogen - Safety in construction and operation of hydrogen fueling stations

  • ASME B31.12-2018 Hydrogen Piping and Pipelines Code

  • ANSI Z223.1-2020 Standard for the Storage, Handling, and Use of Liquefied Petroleum Gases (LP-Gases) / Hydrogen


    • These standards address various aspects of hydrogen safety, such as:

    Hydrogen handling and storage: Guidelines for storing and transporting hydrogen in compressed gas cylinders or liquid form.
    Vehicle refueling systems: Standards for designing and operating vehicle refueling stations, including requirements for piping, valves, and electrical equipment.
    Stationary applications: Regulations for installing and maintaining stationary hydrogen storage tanks, piping, and associated equipment.

    US Federal and State Regulations

    In the United States, various federal agencies and state governments have established regulations to ensure public safety when handling and storing hydrogen. Some key regulatory bodies include:

  • The US Department of Transportation (DOT) - responsible for regulating transportation of hazardous materials, including compressed hydrogen gas.

  • The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - sets standards for worker safety in workplaces where hydrogen is used or handled.

  • The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) - regulates pipeline transportation and storage of hazardous liquids, including hydrogen.


    • Some specific regulations include:

    DOT CFR 49 Part 178: Establishes requirements for the design, fabrication, testing, and inspection of DOT-specification containers for compressed gases, including hydrogen.
    OSHA 29 CFR Part 1910.119: Sets standards for process safety management (PSM) at workplaces where hazardous materials are used or handled, including hydrogen.

    European Union Directives

    The European Union has established several directives to ensure safe handling and storage of hydrogen in commercial applications:

  • The Low Voltage Directive (LVD), which applies to electrical equipment, including charging systems for electric vehicles.

  • The Pressure Equipment Directive (PED), which regulates the design, manufacture, and installation of pressure vessels, including those used for storing hydrogen.


    • Canada and Australia

    Regulations in Canada and Australia also address hydrogen safety:

  • Natural Resources Canadas Hydrogen Fuel Cell Guidelines provide guidance on safe handling and storage of hydrogen.

  • The Australian Standard AS 5664-2006 Compressed gases - Safety requirements for compressed gas containers and cylinders applies to hydrogen.


    • QA Section

    Q1: What is the primary concern when handling hydrogen in commercial applications?

    A1: The primary concern with hydrogen handling is its high reactivity, particularly with air. Hydrogen can form explosive mixtures with air, leading to potential explosions or fires.

    Q2: How do standards address vehicle refueling systems for hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs)?

    A2: Standards for vehicle refueling systems address aspects such as:

  • Piping and valve design to prevent leaks

  • Electrical equipment and charging system requirements

  • Venting and drainage provisions


    • Q3: Can you describe the key differences between ASME B31.12-2018 and ANSI Z223.1-2020?

    A3: While both standards address hydrogen safety, they differ in scope:

  • ASME B31.12-2018 is specific to piping systems

  • ANSI Z223.1-2020 applies to storage, handling, and use of LP-gases/hydrogen


    • Q4: What is the significance of OSHA 29 CFR Part 1910.119 for hydrogen handling?

    A4: This regulation sets standards for process safety management (PSM) at workplaces where hazardous materials are used or handled, including hydrogen.

    Q5: Can you provide more information on international standards for stationary applications?

    A5: International standards, such as ISO 16924-2016 and ASME B31.12-2018, cover aspects like:

  • Stationary storage tank design

  • Venting and drainage provisions

  • Electrical equipment requirements


    • Q6: What are the differences between US federal regulations and state regulations for hydrogen safety?

    A6: While federal agencies set overarching standards, individual states may have more stringent or specific requirements due to local conditions.

    Q7: Can you discuss the relevance of EU directives in relation to hydrogen safety?

    A7: Directives such as LVD and PED address electrical equipment and pressure vessel design, respectively, ensuring safe handling and storage of hydrogen.

    Q8: Are there any other national regulations for hydrogen safety that should be considered?

    A8: Yes, Canadas Natural Resources Canada Hydrogen Fuel Cell Guidelines and Australias AS 5664-2006 provide additional guidance on hydrogen handling and storage.

    Q9: How often are these standards updated to reflect emerging technologies or new knowledge?

    A9: Standards are reviewed and revised periodically by relevant committees to ensure they remain current with industry developments and best practices.

    Q10: Can you summarize the key takeaways from this article regarding standards for hydrogen safety in commercial applications?

    A10: Key points include:

  • International, national, and local regulations address various aspects of hydrogen safety

  • Standards cover vehicle refueling systems, stationary storage, and handling, as well as electrical equipment and pressure vessel design

  • Regulations are updated regularly to ensure they remain relevant and effective.


    • The use of hydrogen in commercial applications requires adherence to established standards for safe handling and storage. By understanding the key regulations and guidelines, organizations can minimize risks associated with hydrogen usage.

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